Kiaorana, Iaorana or Kura Ora is the greeting here, or the word for hello. Welcome to Hao, also known as Haorangi, a large coral atoll in the central part of the Tuamotu Archipelago. There is only one entrance through Kaki Passage at the northern end of the atoll. We arrived at 5:30 a.m. The entrance to the lagoon was rough, so the ship waited a bit before safely entering the lagoon at 10:30 a.m.
We snorkeled in the beautiful Tai roto (lagoon) of Haorangi. Midafternoon, we took a bus into the township of Otepa. We were greeted by beautiful smiles and the sound of the local string band. Vendors sold shell necklaces in the market. The ship will stay overnight here in Hao. We plan to enjoy our stay!
Maururu e Kia Manuia, or best wishes!
Photo caption and photographer: We found a group of friends singing together, and we were invited to join in. Photo by Gabby Salazar
